Active videogames not a substitute for exercise

GMA News writes.

Researchers from Baylor College of Medicine, in Houston, Texas, found that children who were given so-called active videogames to play on a Nintendo Wii did not end up logging any more moderate or vigorous physical activity than those given games they could play sitting on the couch.

Reuters says some public health researchers have hoped that active videogames might be an alternative to outdoor play and sports for at least some of the physical activity kids need, especially for those who live in unsafe neighbourhoods where playing outside is not always an option.

Participants wore the devices on a belt during four different week-long periods throughout the study, which allowed the research team to determine when they were sedentary, or lightly exercising and when they were engaged in moderate to vigorous exercise.

While there's other evidence that active videogames can help seniors improve balance and co-ordination, the junior leaguers may benefit more from the real thing, KSDK notes.

Experts suggest kids may be more active when families play games together.